Eifs Siding Problems

The eifs layers bond together to form a covering that doesn t breathe.

Eifs siding problems.

Why eifs problems occur. This mechanism of deterioration. The components principally affected are the interior and exterior gypsum sheathing the metal or wood studs and the fiberglass cavity insulation. Eifs are vulnerable to damage due to the combination of a thin stucco coating over a soft base make.

Impacts to the surface can result in cracks. Keep in mind water intrusion is cumulative. In march of 1999 the nahb national association of home builders research center listed the most common problems they found that were associated with water intrusion in eif systems as being. Damage can be repaired siding replaced.

The typical moisture damage in an eifs assembly is deterioration due to mold wood decay fungi and corrosion leading to decay loss of strength and discoloration. What are the problems with eifs. Major eifs problems with water trapping have caused rot and decay of homes using this product. However prolonged exposure of the lamina to moisture eventually leads to a loss of strength of the fiberglass mesh.

Incorrect selection or application of sealants or missing sealants provides an easy path for water entry and premature deterioration. While the focus was on eifs clad houses it would soon be learned that the water intrusion problem occurred in all houses regardless of the cladding. The longer water penetrates the building envelope the greater the potential damage. Using the soft styrofoam substrate allows the builder to use less of cement stucco material.

To compensate for this the mesh is coated with plastic and the alkaline environment is buffered chemically. 85 of all remediation costs less than 1500 and is usually a maintenance issue. Sealant joints are a major source of problems with eifs cladding. Windows doors electrical outlets roof flashings deck flashings below grade installation.

Before the eifs industry knew what had happened the news media was reporting building defects in these eifs houses. Damage can be repaired but not easily. Eifs is usually sprayed onto mesh that is mounted to styrofoam type of material. Moisture accumulation in the wall cavity.

But eifs houses were still the focal point. The problems with barrier eifs cladding all stem from water intrusion. That s fine when no moisture is present behind the covering but moisture can become trapped behind the layers if it seeps in.